It’s on everyone’s lips – it seems nothing works today without “New Work.” But what’s really behind the term? For many, “New Work” remains a nebulous buzzword without real substance.
At its core, it’s about a work environment emphasizing personal freedom, self-fulfillment, and co-creation.The term “New Work” goes back to the Austrian-American philosopher Frithjof Bergmann, who says: “New Work is the work a person truly wants to do.”
Sounds great, right? Clearly, “New Work” is a catch-all term for many new work models. What makes work attractive? Everyone will surely answer this differently. But let’s take a closer look at what “New Work” is about.
What Defines New Work?
1. Where And How Do I Want To Work?
Digital And Hybrid Collaboration
New Work offers personal freedoms – whether through flexible working hours or the choice of where to work. Traditional 9-to-5 jobs are no longer attractive to many employees.
Hybrid working is a crucial factor for many.
2. What Is The Purpose Of My Work?
Purpose
The meaningfulness of a job is also significant for many people today. On one hand, it’s crucial that the values of the company align with personal values. Additionally, we perceive our work as meaningful when we understand why we do something, what impact our work has on others, and how it contributes to our personal development.
We want to use our individual strengths and abilities in our work and learn new things.
3. What Are The Structures I Want To Work In?
New Leadership
Besides flat hierarchies, today’s employees want a “boss” who is not a driver but more of a coach.
The core idea is that leaders address employee´s needs and recognize and nurture their strengths. Creating a respectful work environment where productive and conflict-free work is possible also plays a central role.
4. How Do I Adapt To New Demands?
Agility
Various approaches and agile methods like Scrum or Kanban support people in the work environment to adapt quickly to changes and handle challenges flexibly. They provide practical tools but also foster a mindset that sees change as an opportunity.
Overall, meaningful work, competent leadership, lifelong learning, and flexible work schedules are desirable for many employees. Companies also benefit when the motivation and productivity of employees increase and when they are seen as attractive employers.
But New Work is not always the best solution.
What Are The Weaknesses Of New Work?
1.
Poor Implementation In The Organization:
Sometimes, it is the implementation where New Work falters. Many companies jump on the New Work trend but implement the concepts superficially. For this kind of intervention, they need time and patience to get a comprehensive effect.
Furthermore, it is imperative that the company leadership endorses the concept and refrains from merely delegating procedures “downwards.” New Work must be actively lived, and the change process must be supported.
2.
New Work Doesn’t Fit Every Company:
In some industries, such as software development, responding flexibly to challenges is important. However, in many areas, agile working can also lead to employee and leadership burnout.
3.
Personal Responsibility Can Be Overwhelming:
Of course, New Work expands personal freedom within the organization. However, freedom can lead to a feeling of uncertainty. When employees are responsible for their personal development or can freely choose their work hours and location, it might be overwhelming.
Responsibility for creating a supportive work environment and activating the strengths and potential of teams still lies with the company. It should not be shifted solely onto employees.
Take Away:
New Work offers great opportunities: it can foster motivation and satisfaction, activate the strengths and potential of employees and leaders, and make organizations more attractive.
However, a successful implementation requires foresight, commitment, and above all, a company culture that actively embraces change.
Without a clear direction and consistent support, the promises of “New Work” often don’t come true, and the risks – such as being overwhelmed or using procedures that aren’t appropriate – can outweigh the benefits.
What Do you think about New Work?
Does it work in your company? Share your experiences in the comments. I’m excited to hear your opinion.
